Hi. I am an absolute beginner sewer and I just purchased a Kenmore Mini Ultra. I've been following the manual's instructions but I've gotten stuck at "drawing up bobbin thread". I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong, but it just doesn't work! I'm supposed to hold the needle thread lightly with my left had and rotate the handwheel counterclockwise for one complete turn. I've done this, but the handwheel won't go a complete turn, something is jammed. I think there is a problem with the way I inserted the bobbin. I've left a few inches of thread hanging out to the right and I haven't closed the shuttle cover. Also, I've left the footpedal up. Any thoughts?

I haven't received any responses, so I just wanted to point out that this may not be a problem specific to my machine; it may just be "beginner's dilemma". Any feedback would be much appreciated. Thanks,Very frustrated

I am considering buying one of these machines as a birthday present to myself. I have no idea how to sew at all and made the mistake of buying one of those handheld sewing machines from Joann's which broke immediately. Is this good for beginners? Also, what are the dimensions of the actual machine because space is very limited in my house

make sure that you have the needle facing the right way (one of mine the groove is toward you the other one of mine has the groove to the left) for you sewing machine to pick up the bottom thread. also make sure you have the bobbin loaded all the way onto its post (i forget this all the time) or your needle may hit the bobbin case wrong and not do anything. also try holding the thread loosly and turn the wheel toward you not away .

I also think it is an issue with how the bobbin is currently sitting in your machine. Keep reinserting the bobbin, try different positions. You don't have to shut the case off from your view before trying to turn the wheel. Leaving it open will help you see and understand what is blocking the complete wheel action. (Make sure the power is off for your safety.

My mom got me this machine when I moved out. Thanks Mom, but can I have your old Singer instead? I struggle constantly with loading the side loading bobbin on this machine compared to the top loading bobbin on my Mom's Singer.